Nourish from within: A wholesome chicken curry for the body and soul

This recipe creates a rich, creamy, and mildly-spiced Indian-style chicken curry featuring coconut milk, ginger, and a bright finish of cilantro and lime. Serve it over steamed basmati rice for a complete meal. 

Indian-style chicken curry

Bringing a meal to the table is more than just about filling up. It’s an act of nourishing ourselves, and our loved ones, with flavors and ingredients that support our well-being. This Indian-inspired chicken curry recipe is a perfect example, proving that wholesome food can also be deeply comforting and delicious. Each component of this dish offers a host of health benefits, turning a simple dinner into a truly holistic experience.

Let's explore the powerful, vibrant ingredients that make this recipe so special.

Turmeric: The golden healer

The star of any yellow curry, turmeric gives the dish its brilliant color and its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The active compound, curcumin, is a potent antioxidant that helps fight inflammation, support brain function, and may even help lower the risk of chronic diseases. For your body to absorb the most curcumin, it's best to consume turmeric with black pepper (and though not in this specific recipe, a little fat).

Cumin: Aids digestion

This warm, earthy spice is not only a flavor staple but also a digestive powerhouse. Cumin seeds have been used for centuries to aid digestion and reduce bloating. It has also been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a valuable addition to your spice rack.

Coriander: Gut and heart health

With a bright, citrusy flavor, coriander adds a fresh note to the curry. Both the seeds and the leaves (cilantro) are rich in antioxidants. Coriander has been traditionally used to aid digestion and may even help improve cholesterol levels, supporting overall heart health.

Ginger: Soothes and comforts

The spicy kick of fresh ginger isn’t just for flavor. Ginger is a well-known remedy for nausea and indigestion and contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. It also supports immune health, making it an excellent ingredient for a meal that warms you from the inside out.

Onion and garlic: The aromatic base

Onions and garlic provide the foundational flavors of this curry and also offer significant health benefits. Both are rich in sulfur compounds that act as powerful liver detoxifiers and natural antibiotics. This aromatic duo boosts immunity and adds a deep layer of flavor to the dish.

Coconut milk: Creamy and beneficial

The addition of coconut milk creates a luscious, creamy texture without needing any dairy. Coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of healthy fat that can help promote weight loss by decreasing appetite and increasing energy. It is also a significant source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, which can help prevent anemia.

Cilantro and lime: The fresh finish

A generous garnish of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice at the end elevates the flavor of the entire dish, providing a bright contrast to the rich, warm spices.

• Cilantro is a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

• Lime is packed with Vitamin C, which supports your immune system and helps your body absorb the iron from the chicken.

A recipe for holistic wellness

This chicken curry is a testament to the idea that intentional cooking can be a pathway to holistic wellness. The synergy of these wholesome ingredients—from the antioxidant-rich spices to the gut-friendly broth—creates a meal that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body, leaving you feeling energized and comforted.

So next time you crave a delicious and satisfying meal, remember that with a few simple ingredients, you can bring a truly wholesome and holistic experience to your table.

Ingredients

For the curry:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1.5 tbsp mild yellow curry powder

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp cumin powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• Juice from 1/2 lime

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

For the rice:

• 1.5 cups basmati rice

• Water, according to package directions

Instructions:

1. Sauté aromatics: Heat the oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Bloom the spices: Stir in the yellow curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This step enhances their flavor.

3. Brown the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.

4. Simmer the curry: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook, uncovered, for 15–20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is cooked through.

5. Cook the rice: While the curry is simmering, prepare your rice. Rinse the basmati rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions.

6. Finish the curry: Remove the curry from the heat. Stir in the lime juice and half of the fresh cilantro.

7. Serve: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and serve the curry hot over the rice. Garnish with the remaining fresh cilantro and a lime wedge on the side.